Strathy, Free Church Of Scotland

NC86NW 9 84387 65268

Not to be confused with NC86NW 37 and NC86NW 48 or 51

For Free Church Manse see NC86NW 31

See architecture.

NC 844 652 to NC 876 651 Archaeological desk-based assessment and reconnaissance field survey were conducted in May and June 2001 in relation to proposed improvements to the A836 road along a c 4km stretch between Strathy and Melvich. The study corridor was c 100m wide centred on the existing carriageway. Thirty-four sites were identified, of which only the listed church, manse and school of Strathy Free Church (NMRS NC86NW 9 and NC86NW 31 and 40) were previously recorded.

A linear earthwork of uncertain function and antiquity, comprising a ditch flanked by low upcast banks, was identified in an area of extensive sandstone quarrying adjacent to Strathy Free Church.

Report to be lodged with Highland SMR and the NMRS.

Sponsor: Highland Council.

A J Dunwell 2001

Mr George Hay states that he has recorded this to some extent.

Minister's porch dated 1881. Simple single storey, 5-bay building with projecting gabled porch in centre, south bay. Rubble, tooled dressings. Gabled porch at west gable with Caithness slab roof. Art Nouveau style glazing (1881); West Highland slate roof. Coped rubble walls.

Building in ecclesiastical use as such. Strathy a "populous rural hamlet" in 1858. (Historic Scotland)

Forming a group of buildings with an associated manse and school "though composed of plain buildings, epitomises the strength and independence of the mid-19th century Highland Free Church movement, constructed and financed by local effort." (S.Beaton)